The Muse: Jacques Anderson, the Founder & CEO of Lean Into Your Design
Meet my next muse!
I worked on this story using Olympia. Olympia provides AI-powered virtual teams to help you streamline operations, enhance productivity, and drive success. Amplify your business growth with a smart and affordable AI team!My friend and colleague, Kate, recommended that I have Jacques as my next muse—she is so inspiring! Jacques will be my guest muse at the next Nine Muses event. You’re welcome to join if you happen to be in Mexico City!
Jacques Anderson is the Founder & CEO of Lean Into Your Design, a Human Design-centered coaching and consulting business dedicated to unlocking the full potential of individuals and teams. Trained by the executive coach for Steve Jobs and one of the global leaders in Human Design, Jacques provides insightful coaching sessions for individuals, business partners, founders, and teams seeking leadership, team-building, and innovative professional development services and experiences.
Prior to being a coach and consultant, Jacques cultivated a diverse array of skills through her extensive corporate experience. After graduating from Harvard Law School, Jacques’ career began at Skadden in New York City as a Mergers & Acquisitions associate advising on deals totaling $50B+.
Jacques then pivoted to startups—initially working as in-house counsel and then as co-founder of DUOS, a digital health startup that has raised $29M to assist older adults and their caregivers. Later, she transitioned from DUOS to pursue executive coaching full-time. Her transition was driven by a passion for guiding others towards balance and purpose.
More info about the muse.
Here’s Jacques’ story.
I'm on a mission to help others live their boldest dream.
My journey started at a crossroads. After graduating from Harvard Law School at 24, I embarked on a successful corporate career—first as a Mergers & Acquisitions associate at Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flow in New York City, where I advised on deals totaling $50B+.
Then I made a hard pivot to startups—initially working as in-house counsel, then as co-founder of DUOS, a digital health startup that has raised $29M to assist older adults and their caregivers. Yet, something felt off. Despite external success, I wasn’t aligned with my true purpose. My career choices were based on pragmatism, not passion.
I was working at some insanely great organizations with awesome people, but I didn’t feel 100% passionate about my work. Even though I was developing skill after skill, my spidey senses told me something “more” was out there.
Then life threw a curveball. My mom became seriously ill, and the stress hit me hard. She was suffering from the effects of a rare blood cancer, and as the only child of a single parent, being the sole caregiver took a toll on my physical and mental health. I experienced a complete rock bottom.
My darkest moment? My partner found me sobbing on my Peloton…at 6 am. Uncontrollably sobbing.
I knew something had to change. It was during that difficult time that I discovered Human Design. It was an absolute revelation. It helped me understand my unique strengths, my energy patterns, and how I was designed to make decisions. For the first time, I felt truly seen and understood. For example, as a 4/6 Splenic Projector, reading that it was natural for me to have inconsistent energy and receive intuitive hits from the universe was absolutely liberating.
With this newfound self-knowledge, I made a bold decision to re-architect my life and bet on myself. I’ve been trained by the best. First, I got certified to give Human Design readings by an international leader in space, and then I got certified in Executive Coaching by Steve Jobs’ ex-coach.
In time, I transitioned to an advisor role at the startup I co-founded and dove into full-time coaching. Much to my mother’s disdain, she couldn’t understand not having a stable full-time job. But I was living boldly and not looking back!
Now, I’m passionate about guiding others towards their own transformational journeys. My coaching approach weaves together the wisdom of Human Design with traditional Executive Coaching and my diverse range of corporate and startup experience.
My guiding principle is that coaching should be informative AND actionable. I meet clients “where they’re at” and develop individualized, tailored plans to meet their needs. Whether someone is a seasoned executive, a founder seeking clarity, or someone trying to escape the corporate hustle, I offer a roadmap for self-discovery, purpose, and whole-person transformation.
Connect with Jacques on Instagram @leanintoyourdesign.
The Musements by Jacques Anderson
Musement means a state of thinking. It is proactive, not passive. It requires intentional effort on the part of the person being "mused." It is much more satisfying and fulfilling than mere amusement. It’s stimulating, too, but in this case, in order to get the input, the participant needs to be actively engaged.
Find Your Reset Button: Everyone needs something to recharge their energy. What instantly shifts you from slump to spark? A walk in nature? A favorite song? Know your reset button and use it regularly.
Take Vacations That Inspire: Take time off, but make it restorative and inspiring. Visit artisans, museums, or simply daydream. Let your mind wander and reconnect with your inner creative muse.
Play to Win, Not Small: Don't hold back. Show up fully and aim for victory. Strive for greatness, not mediocrity.
Your Vibe Attracts Your Tribe: Notice the patterns in the people you meet. They often mirror something in you. What energy are you putting out into the world?
Healthy Self-Soothing: We all need ways to cope with stress. Identify your healthy methods – journaling, exercise, meditation, etc. – and rely on them when needed.
Optimize Your Workspace: Where do you do your best work? A bustling cafe? A quiet home office? Discover your ideal environment and make it yours.
Regular Time & Energy Audits: Reflect on where you're investing your time and energy. Does it align with your goals and values? If not, make adjustments.
Know Your Leadership Style: Understand your strengths and weaknesses as a leader. Then, build a team that complements your skills and fills in the gaps.
The 'University of Miami' Effect: Sometimes, all you need is ONE win to prove you can do it. Find your 'one client' or 'one project' – that initial success that builds momentum.
Sacred Time & Space: Create a sacred space – physical or time-based (e.g., mornings, on the commute) – where you can connect with yourself, recharge, and find inspiration.
Are you a badass female leader, entrepreneur, or creator? Submit your story, and inspire other women to embrace the change, show up boldly, and make that first step towards a dream!
Know a badass woman with a unique story? Recommend The Nine Muses!